Summary of Gemini 2.5 Object Detection Benchmark

Gemini 2.5 Pro is a decent object detector, performing comparably to Yolo V3 from 2018 on the MS-COCO dataset. This benchmark evaluates its ability to identify and outline objects in images.

Key Points:

• MS-COCO Dataset: A well-known dataset used for object detection, containing 80 classes. It has a validation set of 5000 images.
• Testing Method: The model was prompted to detect all visible objects using a structured JSON output format. Confidence levels were also recorded.
• Results Overview:
  • Gemini Pro outperformed earlier models like Flash and Flash-Lite.
  • Using a "thinking budget" (token limit) negatively affected performance.
  • Structured output was generally better for Pro, while unstructured output worked better for Flash models.
  • Gemini Pro achieved an average precision (mAP) of around 0.34, similar to Yolo V3.

Performance Comparison:

• Gemini Pro vs. Others:
  • Pro models showed significantly fewer invalid outputs compared to Flash and Flash-Lite models.
  • State-of-the-art models like Co-DETR performed better, achieving about 0.60 mAP.

Conclusion: Gemini 2.5 Pro offers a versatile solution for object detection tasks, particularly in open-set scenarios, but CNNs remain more efficient with specialized training. The flexibility of Gemini makes it useful for various projects despite some limitations in bounding box accuracy.

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A recent exhibition in Birmingham, called "Real Bodies," may have displayed the bodies of executed Chinese political prisoners. British parliamentarians raised concerns that the cadavers, which were preserved and dissected to show internal anatomy, were sourced from a firm in Dalian, China, known for acquiring corpses from the police. During a debate in the House of Lords, Lord Alton emphasized the need to understand the origins of these bodies, criticizing the exhibition's practice. He called for stricter regulations to ensure all human tissues imported for medical or scientific use are obtained with consent.

The discussion was linked to findings from an independent panel investigating forced organ harvesting in China, particularly affecting Falun Gong practitioners and potentially the Uyghur population. The exhibition's organizers, Imagine Exhibitions, have not provided evidence of consent for the cadavers used. Previous legal actions had highlighted the need for documentation regarding the origins of bodies in such exhibitions, which have faced scrutiny for ethical concerns.

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I'm sorry, but I can't access external links or content from URLs. However, if you provide the text or key points from the paper, I can help summarize it for you!

Ricardo Pallas is a software engineer.

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Preet, a solopreneur running a web design agency, was initially using Typeform for freelance project submissions. However, as the number of submissions grew, the costs became too high. He considered Google Forms but found it unprofessional for his website. To solve this, he created his own form system, which significantly increased submissions and inquiries.

Preet decided to make this tool available to everyone as an open-source project, incorporating AI features that allow for instant form generation and analytics interaction. He has been sharing his progress publicly and is seeking feedback on his new product, hoping it will be as beneficial to others as it has been for him.

Summary of xcframework

The text introduces xcframework, a Haskell library designed to simplify the integration of Haskell libraries into Swift applications. Here are the key points:

1. What is XCFramework?

   • XCFrameworks are multi-platform binary frameworks introduced by Apple.
   • They allow Swift projects to use binary Haskell libraries easily, including necessary headers and shared libraries.

2. Building and Using xcframework:

   • To create an XCFramework from a Haskell library:
     • Build the Haskell library using Cabal.
     • Create a Swift package that wraps the Haskell library.
     • Add this Swift package as a dependency to your Swift project.
   • This process can be automated with Cabal SetupHooks.

3. Installation:

   • Change the build type in your Cabal file to Hooks and add a dependency on xcframework.
   • Create a SetupHooks.hs file to specify where to output the .xcframework.

4. Using xcframework in XCode:

   • Add the .xcframework to your XCode project settings.
   • Import necessary Haskell modules in your Swift code to initialize and exit the Haskell runtime.

5. Using in Standalone Swift Packages:

   • You can also integrate the .xcframework into a standalone Swift package by specifying it as a binary target in the Package.swift file.

6. Caveats:

   • The Haskell library must be exported using a foreign-library stanza in Cabal for proper linking.

7. Conclusion:

   • The xcframework library streamlines the process of adding Haskell dependencies to Swift applications. While it simplifies many aspects, challenges remain in handling complex data types between the two languages. The author encourages feedback and bug reports from users trying out the tool.

A recent study led by Professor Stephen Baxter from the University of Oxford has changed the understanding of the Domesday survey of 1086, a key historical record. The research suggests that this survey was not just a tool for collecting taxes but a sophisticated method of governance and data management, similar to modern big data processes.

The study, which involved Professors Julia Crick and C.P. Lewis, analyzed the Exon Domesday manuscript, the earliest surviving version of the survey. They found that the survey was efficiently executed in less than seven months, gathering extensive economic and territorial data across England. This was done using simple tools—pen and parchment—yet showcased remarkable planning and innovation.

The research also proposes that the main scribe of the Domesday Book was likely Gerard, William the Conqueror’s chancellor, providing a rare personal connection to this historical document. The insights gained from this study highlight the collaborative nature of the scribes who created the Domesday Book, revealing their unique skills and quirks during the writing process.

Overall, the findings are expected to reshape how historians view the Domesday survey, recognizing it as a vital achievement in the history of administrative practices. The study will be published in a book titled "Making Domesday: Intelligent Power in Conquered England" by Oxford University Press in 2025.

No summary available.

Summary of MCP-B Model Context Protocol for Browsers

MCP-B is a new protocol that enhances AI automation on websites by allowing AI to directly access website functions, making it significantly faster and easier to implement. Here are the key points:

• Speed and Efficiency: MCP-B enables AI assistants to perform tasks 1000 times faster than traditional methods, executing actions in milliseconds without the need for complex configurations.

• Easy Setup: Developers can integrate MCP-B into their websites with just about 50 lines of code. There's no need for OAuth flows or API keys, simplifying the process.

• Direct Access: The protocol embeds MCP servers directly into web pages, allowing for seamless communication between AI and the website’s existing APIs using the user's current browser authentication.

• No Additional Costs: Unlike other solutions that may charge $4-5 per task, MCP-B eliminates these costs by using existing browser sessions for authentication.

• User-Friendly: End users only need to install a Chrome extension to access AI assistance immediately on any MCP-enabled website, without any additional setup.

• Cross-Browser Compatibility: The MCP-B extension works with Chrome, Edge, and Firefox, making it versatile across different platforms.

• Privacy-Focused: All processing occurs locally, ensuring that user data remains secure and private.

In summary, MCP-B revolutionizes AI automation in web browsers by providing a fast, easy-to-implement, and secure solution for developers and users alike.

"A Dictionary of Canadianisms on Historical Principles" is a resource that explores the unique words and phrases used in Canadian English. It focuses on the historical development of these terms, showing how language in Canada has evolved over time. The dictionary helps people understand the distinct characteristics of Canadian English and its cultural significance. You can find more information and access the dictionary online at the provided link.

Summary of Thunderbird 140 “Eclipse” Announcement

Thunderbird has released version 140, named “Eclipse,” on July 7, 2025. This update enhances the email experience with features like:

• Dark Message Mode: Messages automatically adapt to Dark Mode, with an option to switch back if needed.
• Appearance Settings: Easily customize the layout and sorting of your message list with a single click.
• Native OS Notifications: Use your operating system’s notifications to manage emails directly, making tasks quicker.
• Account Hub: Simplifies the process of adding new email accounts and calendars.
• Manual Folder Sorting: Drag and drop to organize your custom folders as you like.
• Experimental Exchange Support: Set up Microsoft Exchange accounts with new preferences.
• Export for Mobile: Quickly transfer account settings to the Thunderbird app on Android using a QR code.
• Horizontal Scroll for Table View: Allows for easier navigation of tabular data.

The release includes numerous bug fixes and performance improvements. Users can upgrade manually or wait for automatic updates, with availability for Windows, Linux, and MacOS. There’s a known issue for users with 32bit MAPI when sending mail.

Users can choose to switch to the Thunderbird Release for monthly updates instead of waiting for the next Extended Support Release.

I wanted to connect Anna's Archive to Claude Desktop to easily search and download books. Since I couldn't find a public server for this, I decided to create one myself.

Here’s what it does:

• Searches Anna's Archive using keywords.
• Downloads books from the search results.
• Works directly in Claude Desktop through MCP.

The code is open source and you can find installation and configuration instructions in the repository’s README. I shared this because I thought others might find it useful too!

Flopper Ziro Summary

Flopper Ziro is a fun, DIY project that is a cheap clone of the Flipper Zero device. It is made using the Arduino IDE and is open source, but it's not a professional product and is meant for casual use.

Components Used:

• STM32-L432KC Microcontroller
• FS1000a Radio Transmitter
• RXB12 Radio Receiver
• PN532 RFID/NFC Module (PN7150 needs testing)
• IR LED & Receiver
• SSD1306 OLED Display
• TF Card Memory Shield
• TP4056 Battery Charger
• DC-DC Voltage Booster
• Push buttons and Micro USB connector
• 3.7V LiPo Battery

Features:

• Can emulate and save IR and RF signals.
• Supports RFID/NFC (still in development).
• Displays battery percentage and available SD card memory.
• Programmable using Arduino IDE.
• A 3D printed shell is in progress.

To-Do List:

• Fix software issues related to SD card and display.
• Complete RF scanning and sending features.
• Enhance RFID functionalities like reading and emulating.
• Develop the first version of the PCB and test new components.

Extra: Documentation will be provided.

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The code defines a main function that runs a game. It starts with a new game state. It checks if the game is finished. If it is, the game ends. If not, it updates to the next game state and continues the loop.

Summary: German Universities and the Birth of the Research University

German universities have a long history, but for most of that time, they focused primarily on teaching rather than research. By the 19th century, however, a significant transformation occurred, particularly in Germany.

1. Shift to Research: In the early 1800s, universities like Göttingen began combining teaching with research, leading to a model that would influence educational systems across Europe. German scientists made groundbreaking contributions in various fields, establishing the foundation for modern academia.

2. Enlightenment Challenges: Early modern universities were seen as outdated, primarily training future priests, lawyers, and doctors. Critics argued for reform, suggesting that universities should produce useful, trained professionals rather than being centers of free intellectual inquiry.

3. Göttingen's Influence: Göttingen University, established in the 18th century, became a model for modern research universities. It introduced new academic expectations, including the requirement for professors to publish their work, which helped elevate the university's prestige and attract students.

4. Romantic Philosophy: The Romantic movement redefined the purpose of universities, emphasizing the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake. Key figures like Fichte and Schleiermacher argued that universities should foster personal development and holistic understanding, moving away from utilitarian goals.

5. Humboldt's Vision: After the Napoleonic Wars, Wilhelm von Humboldt played a crucial role in shaping modern German universities, establishing a model that combined teaching and research while promoting academic freedom. His ideas became foundational for the German university system.

6. Impact and Legacy: The research university model developed in Germany has influenced educational systems worldwide, particularly in the United States. While the original ideals of unity and holistic knowledge have faced challenges, the emphasis on research and academic status established a new norm in higher education.

In conclusion, the transformation of German universities into centers of research was a complex process influenced by historical crises, Enlightenment ideals, and Romantic philosophy, leading to the modern academic landscape we recognize today.

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Biomni: A General-Purpose Biomedical AI Agent

Overview:
Biomni is an advanced AI tool designed to assist researchers in various biomedical fields. It combines powerful language processing with planning and coding capabilities to boost research efficiency and help formulate testable hypotheses.

Quick Start Guide:

1. Installation:

   • Use the provided setup script to install the environment.
   • Activate the environment with: conda activate biomni_e1
   • Install the Biomni package: pip install biomni --upgrade
   • Set your API keys in the bash profile for access.

2. Basic Usage:

   • After setup, you can use Biomni to perform tasks by typing commands in natural language, such as planning experiments or predicting properties of compounds.

Contributing to Biomni:
Biomni is open to community contributions, including:

• New analysis tools and datasets.
• Integration of existing biomedical software.
• Tutorials and performance benchmarks.
• Improvements to current tools.

Call for Contributors:
Biomni is developing a new version, Biomni-E2, and invites community collaboration. Contributors can become co-authors on future publications based on their contributions.

Web Interface:
Biomni also offers a no-code web interface for easier access.

Note:
The current release is based on information available as of April 2025. While Biomni is open-source, some integrated tools may have restrictive licenses.

Citation:
For academic purposes, refer to the provided citation format.

No summary available.

I created an offline music player called Petrichor because I couldn't find one that met my needs after trying various Mac apps. Over the past three months, I've built it while learning Swift UI and aiming to help the community with this open-source project.

Key features of Petrichor include:

• A full set of offline music player functions.
• Organized library browsing by mapping music folders.
• Playlist creation and interactive play queue management.
• Folder view browsing option for music.
• Ability to pin favorite music to the sidebar for easy access.
• Simple navigation with right-click options for albums, artists, and more.
• Integrated with macOS for easy controls and dark mode support.
• Fast search capabilities for large music libraries.

The app is currently in alpha, so it may not be fully polished. I've been testing it and fixing issues for the upcoming version 1 release. I welcome feedback and contributions on the GitHub repo. Please try it out and share your thoughts!

Koala Benchmark Suite Summary

Koala is a benchmark suite designed to evaluate the performance of POSIX shell programs. It includes 14 sets of real-world programs from various fields like CI/CD, AI/ML, biology, and humanities, along with real inputs for performance analysis and optimization.

Key Features:

• Diverse Benchmark Sets: Each set focuses on different tasks such as:
  • Analytics: Analyzes network logs.
  • Bio: Conducts genomic analysis.
  • CI/CD: Builds and tests software projects.
  • COVID: Studies public transit during the pandemic.
  • File Mod: Handles file compression and conversion.
  • Inference: Runs tasks using large media models.
  • ML: Implements machine learning pipelines.
  • NLP: Processes texts with NLP methods.
  • Oneliners: Executes shell one-liners.
  • Pkg: Builds packages and analyzes permissions.
  • Repl: Audits security and replays workflows.
  • Unix Fun: Tackles Unix text-processing challenges.
  • Weather: Visualizes weather statistics.
  • Web Search: Crawls and queries Wikipedia data.

Setup Options:

• Install via terminal command, clone the repository, use a Docker container, or build your own Docker image.

Additional Information:

• Detailed setup instructions and input dependencies can be found in the INSTRUCTIONS file.
• Contributions to the project are welcome, with guidelines in the CONTRIBUTING file.
• The suite is licensed under the MIT License.

If you find Koala useful, you can cite its paper from the 2025 USENIX Conference. For questions or suggestions, you can open an issue on GitHub.

I found a collision detection algorithm during COVID and have now written about it. You can check it out on my GitHub repository: GitHub Repo.

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Kyle Nolan shares his journey of building ProjectionLab, a financial planning tool, from a side project to a business achieving $1 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR) within four years, all without external funding. Inspired by the financial independence movement, he started the project in 2021 after struggling to find the right planning tool.

Key milestones in his journey include:

• Starting at $150 monthly recurring revenue (MRR) in May 2021.
• Gradually increasing MRR to $1,000 by December 2021.
• Growing to $10,000 MRR by June 2023 and ultimately reaching $1 million in revenue by June 2025.

Throughout this process, Kyle faced emotional ups and downs, questioning whether to continue or shift to a corporate career. He emphasizes the importance of persistence and teamwork, eventually partnering with Jon Kuipers for growth and marketing, which allowed him to focus on product development.

Kyle highlights the value of building a community around ProjectionLab, engaging with users directly rather than outsourcing customer support. He plans to continue improving the product while maintaining a lean and sustainable business model.

His advice for others is to stay consistent and keep improving, even during tough times, as small, regular efforts can lead to significant results over time.

Researchers have discovered that the close interactions between early humans and domesticated animals significantly influenced the spread of infectious diseases. This study, led by Professor Eske Willerslev, analyzed ancient DNA from 214 human pathogens and found that zoonotic diseases (diseases transferred from animals to humans) emerged around 6,500 years ago, with a notable increase in cases about 5,000 years ago.

Key findings include the world's oldest genetic trace of the plague in a sample that is 5,500 years old, alongside evidence of other diseases like malaria, leprosy, hepatitis B, and diphtheria from various ancient periods. The research involved over 1,300 prehistoric human samples, providing insights into how diseases have evolved over time.

The study suggests that the rise of these diseases was linked to the shift towards farming and the migration of populations, particularly the Yamnaya herders from regions that are now Ukraine and Russia. Understanding these historical disease patterns can help in developing vaccines and preparing for future infectious diseases that may emerge from animals.

The research was published in the journal Nature and highlights the importance of studying past diseases to inform current and future health strategies.

A recent study by researchers from the University of Tokyo explored what happens when a paper airplane is thrown from the International Space Station (ISS). They used a standard A4 sheet to create the model and tested it through simulations and wind tunnel experiments.

Key points include:

1. Flight Dynamics: The paper airplane, when thrown from the ISS at about 400 kilometers above Earth, initially descends relatively stable due to the thin atmosphere at that altitude. However, it falls quickly because it has a low ballistic coefficient, taking about 3.5 days to drop to around 120 kilometers.

2. Turbulence and Destruction: As it enters denser air at around 120 kilometers, the airplane begins to tumble uncontrollably, similar to how a poorly made paper airplane behaves.

3. Wind Tunnel Testing: The researchers built a model and tested it in a high-speed wind tunnel, exposing it to conditions similar to atmospheric reentry. The airplane bent but did not disintegrate initially, though it showed signs of burning.

4. Applications: The findings could inform future space missions that might use similar lightweight designs for atmospheric observations.

Overall, the study mixes scientific inquiry with a sense of fun, showing how something as simple as a paper airplane can lead to insights about aerospace dynamics.

Archaeologists have discovered a 3,500-year-old city named Peñico in northern Peru's Barranca province. This ancient city served as an important trading hub that connected coastal communities with those in the Andes mountains and the Amazon basin. Peñico was likely founded between 1,800 and 1,500 BC, around the same time early civilizations were developing in other parts of the world.

The site, located about 200 km north of Lima at 600 meters above sea level, features a circular structure surrounded by stone and mud buildings. Researchers have identified 18 structures, including ceremonial temples and homes, and found various artifacts like clay sculptures and jewelry.

Peñico is near the site of Caral, the oldest known civilization in the Americas, which thrived around 3,000 BC. Dr. Ruth Shady, who led the research, emphasized that Peñico helps explain the fate of the Caral civilization after it faced challenges from climate change. The location of Peñico was strategic for trade with nearby communities.

Xenharmlib is a music theory library designed for composers and researchers interested in various musical systems beyond the traditional Western scale. It supports different harmonic systems, microtonal and macrotonal tunings, and various notations. The library is user-friendly, extendable, and primarily follows functional programming principles.

Key Features:

• Supports equal division tunings (like Western and Arabic music).
• Offers Western and Up/Down notation.
• Provides tools for analyzing intervals, scales, and their relationships.
• Includes features for modulation and basic posttonal analysis.

Target Audience:

Xenharmlib is aimed at users with basic Python programming skills and is not intended as a full composition tool but rather as a resource for exploring harmonic concepts.

Future Plans:

The library has a roadmap for additional features, including advanced posttonal analysis, new notation systems, and more tuning options.

Development and Contribution:

Xenharmlib is open-source under the GNU Public License v3, with contributions welcome via Gitlab. Code contributions must follow specific formatting and testing guidelines.

For support or to report issues, users can reach out through the Gitlab page or the Xenharmonic Alliance Discord. A comprehensive user guide is available to help navigate the library’s features.

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BreakerMachines is a ready-to-use circuit breaker designed for Ruby on Rails. It includes support for asynchronous operations and fibers, has fallback options, and offers detailed monitoring. Unlike other similar tools, it works well with Ruby's modern fiber scheduler and prevents issues related to thread timeouts.

No summary available.

Summary: Configuring Split Horizon DNS with Pi-Hole and Tailscale

Ben Tasker discusses his experience setting up Split Horizon DNS using Pi-Hole and Tailscale. He transitioned from OpenVPN to Tailscale for a faster and more secure VPN experience. Tailscale allows devices to connect directly over a mesh network.

The main goal was to configure Pi-Hole to return different IP addresses based on whether clients are on the LAN or the Tailscale network. This setup enhances security and usability by avoiding unnecessary authentication for local clients.

Key challenges included managing authentication for services like Nextcloud, which don’t support additional headers, and implementing geo-blocking to reduce attack attempts. He decided to implement Split Horizon DNS to streamline access for Tailscale clients without exposing services to the wider internet.

Ben explains the technical details of configuring Pi-Hole to differentiate DNS responses based on network interfaces using the localise-queries setting. He faced issues with networking configurations in Docker, which he resolved by switching to host networking for Pi-Hole.

After configuring Tailscale to integrate with Pi-Hole, he successfully tested DNS resolution from both LAN and Tailscale clients. The end result is a more secure and convenient access to services while away from home, with the ability to close off WAN access for added security.

Overall, this setup allows for seamless connectivity and improved privacy for devices connected through Tailscale.

After spending ten years in Python's async ecosystem, returning to Ruby felt outdated due to its reliance on thread-based concurrency solutions like SolidQueue and Sidekiq. In contrast, Python has fully embraced async programming, with libraries designed for it, such as FastAPI.

While developing RubyLLM and Chat with Work, the author discovered that asynchronous communication is essential for handling AI responses, which require long connections and many simultaneous conversations. Initially, Ruby's async approach seemed less advanced, but the author soon realized that it actually offers significant advantages over Python's model, allowing existing code to run without major changes while improving performance.

LLM applications highlight the problems with thread-based concurrency, such as:

1. Slot Starvation: Threads occupy slots while waiting for responses, leading to user delays.
2. Resource Multiplication: Each thread requires separate database connections and memory, which is inefficient for many concurrent tasks.
3. Performance Overhead: Threads introduce latency due to their management overhead.
4. Scalability Challenges: Creating too many threads strains system resources, making it hard to handle numerous users simultaneously.

In contrast, Ruby's fibers allow for cooperative multitasking, enabling better resource management and performance without the overhead of threads. Fibers can handle thousands of concurrent operations with fewer resources, making them ideal for I/O-bound tasks like LLM applications.

Ruby's async ecosystem, built around the async gem, provides a straightforward way to handle many connections with minimal code changes. For example, a simple block of code can manage 1,000 concurrent requests efficiently.

Migrating a Rails application to use async libraries involves just a few simple steps, requiring minimal code alteration. While threads are suitable for CPU-intensive tasks, async is preferable for I/O-bound operations and applications like LLMs.

The author emphasizes that Ruby's approach to async enhances existing code without breaking changes, offering a competitive advantage for building AI-powered applications. The future of Ruby lies in its ability to handle concurrency and streaming effectively while leveraging current codebases.

No summary available.

The author has explored the new flux kontext dev model and found that its most valuable features are not immediately clear. They created a collection of interesting uses for the model, such as targeted text removal and photo restoration. To help others understand its potential, they built a website called FluxKontextLab, where users can see examples and try the model on their own images. The site includes before-and-after comparisons and an interactive feature for testing ideas. The author encourages feedback and hopes people will explore the model's capabilities.

Researchers from University College London and the University of Sydney have developed an AI agent named A1 that can autonomously find and exploit vulnerabilities in cryptocurrency smart contracts, which are self-executing programs on blockchains. This technology could lead to significant profits by exploiting bugs in these contracts, which have resulted in billions of dollars lost to hacking in the cryptocurrency industry.

A1 uses various AI models to analyze smart contract code and generate exploits, testing them against historical blockchain data. In tests, A1 successfully identified vulnerabilities in many real-world contracts, demonstrating a high success rate and the potential for lucrative exploits.

The researchers highlight a significant imbalance between the rewards for attackers and those for defenders in cybersecurity. They suggest that projects should use tools like A1 for their own security monitoring, rather than relying solely on external audits, to keep up with the evolving threat landscape. The paper notes that they are reconsidering making A1 open source due to its potential misuse.

The article discusses ten early desktop publishing software programs that are now largely forgotten, highlighting the innovative impact of desktop publishing in the 1980s.

1. Xerox Alto: A groundbreaking computer that laid the foundation for graphical user interfaces and influenced desktop publishing.
2. The Book Machine: A specialized typesetting machine from the mid-'80s, aimed at professionals but was too expensive for widespread adoption.
3. MacPublisher: An early Mac desktop publishing tool that predated the more popular PageMaker.
4. Aldus PageMaker: A pivotal application that defined desktop publishing for professionals but eventually faded away due to competition.
5. The Newsroom: A software aimed at kids for creating printable newspapers, reflecting the youthful spirit of the era.
6. Clickart Personal Publisher: One of the first desktop publishing applications for PCs but struggled to succeed.
7. geoPublish: A robust publishing tool for Commodore 64 and Apple II, extending the lifespan of older systems.
8. Ventura Publisher: A professional-grade tool that utilized advanced features like style sheets but is now obsolete.
9. Timeworks Publisher: A less expensive option that faced criticism for its lack of professional features.
10. Serif PagePlus: A budget-friendly layout program that was popular for many years before being replaced by more modern tools.

The article emphasizes how quickly desktop publishing evolved and how some once-prominent tools have disappeared, reflecting changes in technology and user needs.

The text discusses a 2006 paper that is quoted incorrectly. It states that lightness (L*) is separate from a*/b* (hue and chroma), but in the CIELAB color model, a* and b* actually represent red-green and blue-yellow axes, not hue and chroma. However, the paper still supports the idea that hue and lightness are easier to identify than chroma and the color axes.

Summary of White Noise Messenger

White Noise is a fast, secure, and private messaging app that allows users to communicate without revealing their identities, such as phone numbers or emails. Here are the key features:

• Privacy & Security: Conversations are protected with strong encryption, ensuring that past and future messages remain private even if encryption keys are compromised.
• Identity Freedom: Users can choose to be anonymous, use a pseudonym, or their real name, giving them control over their identity.
• Open & Decentralized: Built on open standards, White Noise allows users to transfer their identity and data across different platforms without losing connections.
• Distributed & Uncensorable: The network is maintained by thousands of independent nodes, making it resistant to censorship. Users can also run their own servers easily.
• Fast & Reliable: Designed for real-time messaging, it efficiently handles both direct messages and large group chats.
• Non-Profit & Community-Driven: White Noise is run by volunteers and is not funded by corporations or governments, focusing on user privacy and security.

White Noise is open-source and available for use on multiple devices, ensuring long-term security and privacy for its users.

The article discusses the challenges of using complex task management apps that overwhelm users with too many options, similar to a restaurant with an extensive menu that confuses rather than satisfies. The author argues that these systems create friction rather than clarity.

The solution is a simpler system called tududi, designed to minimize distractions and cognitive load. It offers a straightforward interface that allows users to quickly input tasks without unnecessary prompts or options. The focus is on helping users take action rather than manage their tasks obsessively.

Tududi reflects a user’s thoughts and helps them organize tasks efficiently, emphasizing movement over management. The system adapts to the user’s needs without imposing additional cognitive strain. In essence, the best productivity tool is one that stays out of the way, allowing users to think and act freely.

Summary:

A security issue was found in Helm (versions up to 3.18.3) that can lead to local code execution when updating chart dependencies. This vulnerability occurs due to a specially crafted Chart.yaml file and a Chart.lock file that can be symlinked to executable files, allowing malicious content to run. The problem arises when the command helm dependency update is executed, which writes data from the Chart.lock file to the symlinked file, potentially leading to unwanted execution.

This issue has a CVSS score of 8.5, indicating high severity, as it requires minimal user interaction and no special privileges. It has been patched in version 3.18.4 of Helm. To mitigate this risk, users should ensure that their Chart.lock file is not a symlink before updating dependencies.

For more details, refer to Helm's security policy. The vulnerability was reported by Jakub Ciolek.

No summary available.

Summary of "Making Explainable Minesweeper"

The author discusses their experience with a game called "14 Minesweeper Variants" and their curiosity about the hints provided in Minesweeper. They note that while Minesweeper can have clear solutions, many situations lead to uncertainty, often forcing players to guess.

A key point is the concept of "50/50 situations," where players have to choose between two squares, both of which could hide a mine. This often results from the game's map generation algorithm. The author highlights that beginners often mistakenly assume these situations require luck when, in fact, logical deduction can solve them.

To address this, the author decided to create a new game called "Explainable Minesweeper," which focuses on intuitive reasoning and clear explanations of the game mechanics. The maps are designed to be solvable through deduction alone, and the game includes various deduction rules, such as global and simple patterns, to help players understand the logic behind mine placement.

The goal of the game is to teach players that Minesweeper can be solved without relying on luck, making the gameplay more approachable and enjoyable. The author also invites feedback and support for additional languages for the game.

Windows 10 is ending support, and Zorin OS offers a better alternative for your computer. It aims to make your device faster, more powerful, secure, and user-friendly.

Key features of Zorin OS include:

• User-Friendly Design: It has a familiar layout, allowing users to adapt easily, regardless of whether they're coming from Windows, macOS, or Linux.
• Speed and Performance: Zorin OS runs quickly and efficiently, even on older computers (up to 15 years old), helping to extend their lifespan and reduce e-waste.
• Security and Privacy: Built on Linux, Zorin OS is resistant to viruses and doesn't collect personal data, ensuring user privacy.
• App Compatibility: It comes with essential apps and supports many Windows applications, allowing users to access a wide variety of software.
• Gaming: Zorin OS supports a large library of games from platforms like Steam and Epic Games.
• Integration with Android: Zorin Connect allows seamless interaction between your computer and Android phone, including file sharing and notification syncing.

Zorin OS can be installed alongside existing operating systems and is available for free, with a Pro version offering additional features. Users can try it out via a USB drive before full installation.

Overall, Zorin OS is praised for its speed, ease of use, and appealing design, making it a strong choice for those looking to switch from Windows or macOS.

No summary available.

No summary available.

Branch instructions are crucial for decision-making in programs running on a CPU. This article is part of a series discussing CPU performance, aimed at helping students and engineers improve their C and C++ coding skills.

Key Points:

1. Sequential Execution Model:

   • CPUs typically execute instructions one at a time in a linear sequence.
   • Branch instructions alter this flow by directing the CPU to different instructions based on conditions.

2. Types of Branch Instructions:

   • Conditional Branches: Only executed if a specific condition is met (e.g., if statements).
   • Unconditional Branches: Always executed, often used for function calls or specific jumps.

3. Direct vs. Indirect Branches:

   • Direct Branches: Target addresses are included in the instruction, making them more straightforward.
   • Indirect Branches: Targets are determined by values in registers or memory, which can make them harder to predict and less efficient.

4. Branch Prediction:

   • CPUs try to anticipate the outcome of branch instructions to improve performance. Accurate predictions can significantly speed up execution since many instructions follow sequentially.

5. Performance Tips:

   • Reduce complexity in conditions to minimize the number of branches.
   • Use inlining to eliminate function call branches.
   • Avoid deep function call chains that can lead to inefficiencies.
   • Limit the use of indirect branches whenever possible.
   • Utilize conditional move instructions to streamline execution.

By understanding and optimizing branch instructions, programmers can enhance their code's efficiency and performance.

A German court has ruled that Meta, the parent company of Facebook, must pay €5,000 (about $5,900) to a Facebook user for violating European privacy laws by using tracking technology on third-party websites without user consent. The Leipzig Regional Court found that Meta's tracking tools collect user data in violation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This ruling could lead to more lawsuits against Meta and other websites that use similar tracking technologies. Experts believe this decision could result in significant financial consequences for companies that do not comply with data privacy laws, as it allows users to sue without having to show specific damages. Overall, this ruling is seen as a major development in data privacy enforcement in Europe.

The author, Alice Vinogradova, created a vector database called ZVDB in ABAP and later successfully ported it to a 1976 Z80 CPU. She found that the programming techniques she used in ZVDB, influenced by her experience with Z80 assembly language, were still effective.

Key points include:

• Historical Context: ABAP was developed in 1983, while the Z80 processor was widely used by 1976. Both technologies emerged during a time when memory and processing power were limited.

• Optimization Techniques: The author applied Z80 programming techniques, such as using lookup tables and pre-computation, to improve performance in her ABAP code. These methods remain relevant today.

• Performance Comparison: When ZVDB was run on modern hardware versus the Z80, it was only 3-6 times slower, even with a significant difference in processing speed. This highlighted the effectiveness of the optimizations.

• Enduring Principles: The author emphasizes that the lessons learned from low-level programming, like efficient memory access and the importance of pre-computation, are still applicable in modern computing environments.

In summary, Vinogradova showcases how timeless programming principles from the Z80 era can lead to efficient solutions even in contemporary software development.

No summary available.

As organizations grow and modernize their data systems, controlling data access has become increasingly important. CockroachDB's recent 25.2 update introduces Row-Level Security (RLS), which allows for more detailed access controls at the row level within the database, rather than just at the table level. This feature helps secure sensitive data and supports multi-tenant applications by ensuring users access only their own data.

Key Points:

1. Row-Level Security (RLS): This feature provides fine-grained access control, allowing organizations to manage who sees what data based on user roles or attributes.

2. Benefits for Multi-Tenancy: RLS simplifies data management in multi-tenant environments where multiple customers share a database. It eliminates the need for separate tables or schemas for each tenant, reducing infrastructure costs and complexity while maintaining data isolation.

3. Operational Efficiency: With RLS, changes to the database schema can be made once rather than multiple times for different tenants, lowering the risk of errors and improving resource use.

4. Geographic Data Control: RLS also supports compliance with regional data laws by restricting access based on geographic location, ensuring users can only view data relevant to their region.

5. Implementation Example: The article provides a step-by-step example of how to set up RLS in CockroachDB, demonstrating how it allows tenants to access only their data while keeping the application layer simple.

6. Conclusion: CockroachDB's Row-Level Security is a significant improvement for managing data access securely and efficiently, making it ideal for modern applications requiring strict data governance.

For those interested in implementing RLS, resources and demos are available to help get started with this feature.

No summary available.

No summary available.

The developer of rdx has created a new app called OffChess, designed for solving chess puzzles without an internet connection. The app is available for iPhone and Android and includes over 100,000 chess puzzles that can be categorized by difficulty and type. Users can earn or lose points based on their performance, providing a simple rating system to enhance engagement. OffChess is ad-free, does not require accounts or subscriptions, and focuses on offline tactical chess training. The app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play. The developer is seeking feedback and suggestions from users.

Summary of Research on eSIM Security

Security Explorations conducted an extensive analysis of eSIM technology, particularly focusing on vulnerabilities found in Kigen's eUICC (embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card). Here are the key points:

1. eSIM Technology Overview: eSIMs allow mobile subscriptions digitally, replacing traditional SIM cards. They can carry Java Card applications.

2. Vulnerabilities Discovered: The research revealed significant security flaws in Kigen's eUICC that were previously reported in 2019. These vulnerabilities allow unauthorized access to eSIM profiles and sensitive data.

3. Successful Exploit: The researchers were able to hack a Kigen eUICC card and extract private keys, confirming that eSIM profiles could be downloaded and modified without detection. This poses a serious risk to mobile network operators (MNOs) and users.

4. Implications of the Hack:

   • Attackers can download arbitrary eSIM profiles in plaintext.
   • The integrity of the eSIM security is compromised, allowing for potential identity theft and unauthorized access to sensitive applications (like banking).
   • The hack demonstrates a major weakness in the eSIM architecture, questioning the trust MNOs place in eUICC security.

5. Response and Fixes: Kigen acknowledged the vulnerabilities and implemented security patches. They have communicated with GSMA and other stakeholders to mitigate risks.

6. Recommendations for MNOs and Vendors:

   • Avoid relying on shared secret keys for security.
   • Implement Java Card hardening and runtime fixes.
   • Assume that any app logic or secrets could be compromised.

7. Importance of Independent Security Research: The findings highlight the need for ongoing security evaluations and the importance of addressing vulnerabilities proactively to protect users and systems.

8. Future Considerations: The industry needs to reassess the security of eSIMs and ensure proper safeguards against potential exploits, as many existing systems may still be vulnerable.

This research emphasizes the critical need for vigilance in mobile security, especially as vulnerabilities can lead to significant breaches affecting millions of users.

Summary:

McHire is a chatbot recruitment platform used by most McDonald’s franchisees, where applicants interact with a bot named Olivia to submit personal information and take a personality test. A security review revealed two major vulnerabilities: the admin interface had weak default login credentials, and an internal API allowed access to sensitive applicant data.

While testing the system, the reviewers were able to log in as an administrator and discovered they could view personal information of over 64 million applicants, including names, emails, phone numbers, and candidacy statuses. After realizing the potential risks, they reported the vulnerabilities to Paradox.ai and McDonald's. The companies promptly addressed the issues and assured that they would prioritize the security of candidate data.

The timeline of the disclosure shows that the issues were resolved quickly after they were reported.

The term "calling a function" in programming has several possible origins. It can be likened to calling a friend, summoning a servant, or making a phone call to get information. The most fitting explanation is that it relates to summoning a subroutine from a library, similar to requesting a book from a library.

The phrase "call number" in library science, first noted in the late 19th century, refers to a system used to locate books. This concept influenced how programmers use "call" in relation to subroutines, as it involves referencing specific routines stored in memory.

Early mentions of "call" in computing appeared in the 1940s, when it was used to describe how control could be transferred to subroutines. By the 1950s, languages like Fortran II formalized the concept with "CALL" and "RETURN" statements, which allowed programmers to initiate subroutines directly.

Over time, the term "call" evolved, becoming synonymous with both the act of invoking a subroutine and the subsequent transfer of control during program execution. By the early 1960s, the usage of "to call" a function became common, especially influenced by Fortran's syntax.

In summary, the term "calling a function" in programming stems from library terminology and has evolved to describe the act of invoking subroutines in code.

A technology leader is someone who guides and influences a team or organization in using technology effectively. They are responsible for making decisions about tech strategies, tools, and innovations. Their role includes staying updated on tech trends, managing projects, and ensuring that technology aligns with business goals. Good communication and leadership skills are essential for motivating teams and driving successful tech initiatives.

The author discusses their experience using Shopify's documentation bot while upgrading email notification templates. They asked how to check if an order contains items fulfilled through Shopify Collective. The bot provided a code snippet that didn’t work because the necessary tag is added to the order after the confirmation email is generated, which isn’t documented anywhere.

The author is frustrated because the bot gave incorrect information, questioning the reliability of a documentation tool that makes guesses. They emphasize that while the bot can provide quick answers for simple queries, inaccurate guidance can lead to bigger issues. Ultimately, the author found a workaround by checking tags on individual products instead, which worked correctly since those tags are available when the notification is generated.

EarthGPT allows users to work with multi-spectral satellite imagery using advanced language models and modern remote sensing technology. You can try a demo or sign in for more features. For assistance, you can reach out via email.

Many APIs that claim to be "RESTful" do not actually follow REST principles as defined by Roy Fielding. His original dissertation outlines REST as an architectural style for building scalable and maintainable web services, emphasizing the importance of hypermedia in driving application state transitions. This means that a true REST API should allow clients to discover actions through links in responses, rather than relying on hardcoded paths or external documentation.

Key misconceptions about REST include the belief that it is simply about CRUD operations, that resources are merely persistence entities, or that APIs should avoid using verbs. In reality, a resource can be any identifiable piece of information, and a REST API should not depend on specific protocols or fixed URIs. Instead, it should focus on how data is represented through media types and hypermedia links.

Fielding outlines six essential rules for what constitutes a RESTful API, which include:

1. Protocol Independence: A REST API should work with any URI and not be tied to HTTP.
2. No Protocol Changes: Stick to existing standards and avoid redefinition of how protocols work.
3. Focus on Media Types: Emphasize the data formats and links rather than URI structures.
4. Avoid Fixed URI Structures: Clients should dynamically discover URIs through links.
5. No Significant Resource Types: Resource types should be invisible to clients.
6. Start with a Bookmark: Clients should begin with a single entry point and navigate using links.

Most APIs today simplify interactions, often prioritizing ease of implementation over adherence to these principles. While traditional REST emphasizes decoupling and dynamic interaction, many developers find it more practical to use straightforward methods that allow for quick development. Ultimately, the design of an API should focus on usability and the needs of its consumers, regardless of whether it strictly adheres to REST guidelines.

Summary:

Join our research lab focused on financial markets, where we use real-time data to develop advanced AI systems. Our strength lies in our quick learning and adaptation, not in secret data. You'll lead the machine learning and AI strategy, starting with options trading, which is complex and full of potential.

Your Role:

• Develop predictive models and workflows for discovering signals.
• Use alternative data and conduct experiments in both simulated and real trading environments to assess your impact on market returns.
• Collaborate closely with founders to test predictions and learn from the outcomes.
• Help shape the research direction and culture from the beginning.

What We Need:

• Strong expertise in machine learning and AI, particularly in time-series and forecasting.
• Proficient coding skills in Python and experience with data infrastructure.
• Experience in deploying models in real-world settings; you prioritize effectiveness over aesthetics.
• A clear thinker who is eager to innovate and explore, even without prior experience in finance.

You'll have the freedom to produce some of the best work of your career.

Wendy van Dijk expresses her sadness about not being able to create more good memories with Matt. She reflects on their past moments together, both good and bad, but the happy memories bring her comfort.

Summary of Cloudflare DDNS

Overview: Cloudflare DDNS is a simple shell script that updates DNS records on Cloudflare dynamically.

Key Features:

• Dual Stack Support: Works with both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses.
• Multiple Record Support: Can update multiple DNS records at once.
• Smart Monitoring: Only updates if the IP address changes.
• Auto Caching: Caches DNS records for faster performance.
• Authentication Options: Supports both API Token and Legacy API Key.
• Proxy Protocol: Can use a Socks proxy for API requests.
• Service Management: Includes examples for systemd services.
• Notifications: Sends updates via Telegram.
• Logging: Keeps a CSV log of DNS updates.
• Flexible Settings: Configurable using command-line parameters or environment variables.

Usage:

1. Download the script:

   curl -o /usr/local/bin/cloudflare-ddns.sh https://raw.githubusercontent.com/fernvenue/cloudflare-ddns/master/cloudflare-ddns.sh
   

2. Make it executable and run it:

   chmod +x /usr/local/bin/cloudflare-ddns.sh
   ./cloudflare-ddns.sh --help
   

3. Set environment variables for your Cloudflare account and DNS records.

Logging:

• Logs updates to a CSV file by default, storing information like timestamps and IP addresses.

Dependencies:

• Requires tools like curl, jq, and awk to function properly.

Examples:

• Update a single A record:

  ./cloudflare-ddns.sh --cloudflare-api-token "your-token" --cloudflare-record-names "ddns.example.com" --cloudflare-record-types "4"
  

• Update records with Telegram notifications:

  ./cloudflare-ddns.sh --cloudflare-api-token "your-token" --telegram-bot-id "your-bot-id" --telegram-chat-id "your-chat-id"
  

This script is useful for keeping your DNS records updated automatically and efficiently.

No summary available.

Ikea is launching over 20 new smart home products that will work with the Matter standard, making them compatible with other brands and easier to use. Starting in January, these products will include smart lights, sensors, and remotes, focusing on affordability and simplicity.

The Dirigera smart home hub has been updated to support Matter and Thread, allowing it to control various smart devices, even those not made by Ikea. This move aims to create a more open and user-friendly smart home environment.

Ikea's new products will also work without the hub or app, fitting into existing smart home ecosystems like Apple Home and Amazon Alexa. This shift positions Ikea as a leader in bringing Matter to mainstream consumers, aiming to simplify smart home technology for everyone, not just tech-savvy users.

Overall, Ikea is committed to making smart home products accessible and affordable, while ensuring compatibility across different systems.

Summary of libpostal: International Street Address NLP

libpostal is a C library designed to parse and normalize street addresses from around the world using statistical natural language processing (NLP) and open data. Its aim is to understand address formats in various languages globally. This library helps convert complex, free-form addresses into clean, standardized formats for easier comparison and indexing in applications like mapping, delivery services, and reviews.

Key features of libpostal include:

• International Address Parsing: It can accurately break down addresses into components (like street names, house numbers, etc.) using machine learning trained on over a billion addresses.
• Normalization: The library can transform messy address strings into normalized versions suitable for search engines.
• Language Support: It supports over 60 languages and can detect languages used in addresses for appropriate normalization.

Libpostal is available for various programming languages through bindings, including Python, Ruby, and Java. Installation instructions are provided for macOS, Linux, and Windows.

The library is optimized for memory efficiency and speed, making it suitable for applications that process large datasets. Contributions to the project are encouraged, and it is open-source under the MIT License.

For more technical details, examples, and installation guidelines, users can refer to the project's GitHub page.

Summary of CVE-2025-48384: Git Vulnerability

A serious security vulnerability (CVE-2025-48384) has been discovered in Git, particularly affecting Unix-like systems. If a user clones an untrusted repository using git clone --recursive, it could lead to remote code execution (RCE). Users are advised to update Git and software that includes Git, like GitHub Desktop.

The issue stems from how Git handles carriage return characters in configuration files, specifically in the .gitmodules file, which tracks submodules. When Git reads these files, it may strip carriage returns unexpectedly, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths. This could lead to malicious files being written to unauthorized locations in the filesystem, potentially leading to executing harmful code.

To mitigate this risk, users should clone repositories without the --recursive option, review the .gitmodules file for safety, and then initialize submodules manually. GitHub Desktop, however, clones recursively by default, making it particularly vulnerable.

A simple code fix has been proposed to ensure that any strings containing carriage returns are properly quoted when written to configuration files, preventing exploitation.

This vulnerability highlights ongoing issues with how software handles different character formats and the importance of careful validation in code. Users are encouraged to stay updated on security patches.

Virby is a tool that helps macOS users build Linux software. It sets up a simple Linux virtual machine (VM) that works as a remote build machine for nix, making it easier to create Linux packages on a Mac.

Astro is a web framework that stands out for its simplicity and focus on content-driven websites. Released in 2021, it is designed to be server-first and ships no JavaScript by default, making it faster and more efficient for content-heavy sites.

Key Features:

• Island Architecture: Astro uses "islands" of JavaScript for interactivity, meaning most of the page remains static HTML. This approach leads to faster load times—about 40% quicker than traditional frameworks like React.
• Improved Developer Experience: Setting up a project is easy, with a user-friendly setup assistant. Astro allows developers to use various frameworks like React or Vue alongside its own components without complications.
• Markdown Support: You can easily import and use Markdown files as components, enhancing flexibility.
• Modern Build Pipeline: Astro supports TypeScript, Sass, and optimizes images automatically, streamlining the development process.

Astro is particularly well-suited for marketing sites, blogs, e-commerce catalogs, and portfolios where content is key. However, it may not be the best choice for complex single-page applications that require heavy client-side routing or state management.

Getting started with Astro is straightforward, requiring just a few commands to set up a project. Overall, it offers a refreshing alternative to more complex JavaScript frameworks, focusing on speed and simplicity. If you're developing a content-focused site, Astro is worth considering for a better user experience and an enjoyable development process.

Summary of Comet Browser by Perplexity

Comet is a new web browser designed to enhance curiosity and improve online research. It transforms the browsing experience by providing a personalized, intelligent interface that helps users ask questions, understand content quickly, and stay organized without getting lost in tabs.

Key Features:

• Curiosity-Driven: Comet acts as a thought partner, making the web a tool for exploration and idea connection.
• Efficient Browsing: It simplifies tasks, reduces distractions, and helps users focus on their work.
• Adaptive Learning: Comet learns from your browsing habits and tailors its features to meet your needs.
• Multi-Language Support: Quickly understand content in any language.
• Productivity Boost: Automates tasks like note-taking and email analysis, saving users time.

Core Values:

1. Personal: Keeps your digital life organized and helps you remember inspirations.
2. Powerful: Provides access to Perplexity's tools on any website.
3. Productive: Minimizes task switching, enhancing workflow.

Availability:

• Initially available for Mac and Windows, with plans for more platforms later.
• Comet is free for all users, with a current focus on Perplexity Max subscribers.

Overall, Comet aims to make online browsing more engaging and efficient for curious users.

No summary available.

In a case before the U.S. District Court for Colorado, Plaintiff Eric Coomer is suing defendants Michael J. Lindell, FrankSpeech LLC, and My Pillow, Inc. The court issued an Order to Show Cause after the defendants submitted a flawed response to Coomer's Motion in Limine, containing nearly thirty incorrect citations and misrepresentations of legal principles.

During the Final Pretrial/Trial Preparation Conference, the lead counsel for the defendants, Christopher Kachouroff, struggled to explain the errors in the response. He admitted that he had delegated the citation checking to a co-counsel, Jennifer DeMaster, and failed to verify the citations himself. The court questioned Kachouroff about the use of generative artificial intelligence in drafting the response, and he acknowledged that he was responsible for the lack of citation checks.

As a result of these deficiencies, the court ordered Kachouroff and DeMaster to justify why they should not face sanctions. They later claimed the erroneous filing was due to human error, stating that a prior draft had been mistakenly submitted instead of the corrected version. Despite their explanations, the court found their responses unsatisfactory and decided to impose sanctions against them for violating legal standards regarding the accuracy of submissions.

The court emphasized that attorneys are responsible for the accuracy of their filings and that reliance on artificial intelligence does not exempt them from this duty. The case underscores the importance of diligence and integrity in legal documentation.

Cosmochemical studies suggest that Earth gained about 5-10% of its mass from carbon-rich materials, mainly delivered by a large impactor named Theia, which is related to the formation of the Moon. To test this idea, researchers conducted simulations of how terrestrial planets formed. They used a model with various small bodies (embryos and planetesimals) between Venus and Earth, and included some carbonaceous bodies scattered by Jupiter.

The findings support several key points:

1. The masses and orbits of the terrestrial planets align with the model.
2. Earth's carbon content matches expectations.
3. Mars has a lower carbon content because it only collected carbon-rich planetesimals.
4. The timing of the Moon-forming impact fits the model.
5. Most of the final materials that added to Earth were not carbonaceous.

For the model to be valid, there needed to be a specific amount of scattered carbonaceous objects. The simulations indicate that there was about a 50% chance that Theia, the last large impactor, was carbonaceous. This research confirms earlier chemical studies about Earth's formation.

Summary of RapidRAW:

RapidRAW is a fast, non-destructive RAW image editor designed for photographers who prefer a simple and enjoyable editing experience. It's a lightweight alternative to Adobe Lightroom, available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and focuses on speed and a beautiful interface rather than perfect color accuracy.

Key Features:

• GPU Acceleration: Uses the GPU for quick image adjustments.
• AI Masking: Offers intelligent masking tools for precise edits.
• Generative Edits: Allows users to add or remove elements from images using AI.
• Full RAW Support: Compatible with various RAW camera formats.
• Non-Destructive Workflow: Keeps original images untouched by saving edits in a separate file.
• Robust Editing Tools: Includes exposure adjustments, color grading, detail enhancement, and more.

Target Users: RapidRAW is aimed at photographers looking for a fast and creative editing workflow. It may not suit those needing precise color accuracy, as it's still in development and may contain bugs.

Recent Updates: The software has seen multiple enhancements, including improved masking, better performance, and the addition of AI features.

Getting Started: Users can either download the latest version or build it from source. Contributions to the project are welcomed.

Support: The developer, an 18-year-old photographer, invites donations to help with ongoing development.

License: RapidRAW is open-source under the AGPL-3.0 license, ensuring it remains free and accessible for all.

Summary of "Blind to Disruption – The CEOs Who Missed the Future":

The article discusses how companies fail to adapt to disruptive technologies, using the example of the carriage industry in the early 20th century. At that time, the U.S. had over 4,000 carriage manufacturers, but only one, Studebaker, successfully transitioned to automobile production as cars became popular.

Key points include:

1. Initial Dismissal of Cars: Carriage makers ignored the early automobiles, viewing them as unreliable and unsuitable for their market, similar to how some modern companies overlook the threat of AI.

2. Failure to Pivot: Most carriage companies did not adapt to changing technology, suffering from denial and a lack of vision about the future of transportation.

3. Studebaker's Success: Unlike its peers, Studebaker recognized that the future was in mobility, not horse-drawn vehicles. They invested in electric and gasoline cars early on, which allowed them to thrive.

4. Challenges Faced by Others: Many carriage manufacturers failed due to technological gaps, high costs of retooling, outdated business models, and a lack of visionary leadership.

5. Lessons for Today: The piece warns that today's CEOs must recognize and act on emerging technologies like AI, or risk becoming obsolete like the majority of carriage companies. It emphasizes the importance of long-term planning over short-term profits.

In essence, the article highlights the need for leaders to be adaptable and visionary to survive in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

Four individuals have been arrested in connection with recent cyber-attacks on M&S and the Co-op. The arrests were made by the National Crime Agency (NCA) in Staffordshire and London, involving a 20-year-old woman and three males aged 17 to 19. They are suspected of various crimes, including computer misuse and blackmail.

The cyber-attacks, which started in April, caused significant disruptions for M&S and the Co-op, leading to empty shelves and potential financial losses amounting to £300 million for M&S. Both retailers experienced data breaches, with M&S being the first affected. The attackers used ransomware, demanding payment and stealing private customer and employee data.

The NCA emphasized that these arrests are an important step in their ongoing investigation to bring those responsible to justice.

No summary available.

No summary available.

iPod Linux Summary

iPodLinux is an open-source project that allows users to run Linux on iPods. It successfully ported a customized version of the uClinux kernel to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation iPods, along with a simple interface called Podzilla. This project adds features that are not available in the original Apple software.

While it is safe to install on older iPods, the team is also working on supporting newer models like the 4th generation and Nano, but they cannot guarantee support for these newer devices. Advanced users are encouraged to try iPodLinux on newer models at their own risk.

Key resources include:

• Official Installer: To install iPodLinux on your device.
• Project Status: To check if your iPod is supported.
• Guides and FAQs: For installation help and troubleshooting.

For anyone unfamiliar with technical aspects, it's advised to stick to the supported models to avoid complications.

Summary: SVGs that Feel Like GIFs

A new type of animated image is gaining popularity: moving SVGs, which are similar to GIFs but much smaller in file size (only 49Kb) and high in resolution. GitHub supports these SVG animations in README.md files.

To create these animations, you can use tools like asciinema and svg-term-cli. The process involves recording your terminal actions with asciinema and then converting that recording into an SVG file.

The animation features in SVGs are built into the SVG specification, allowing for various animations like changing attributes, transformations, and moving elements along paths.

This method is being widely used, especially on platforms like bespoken.

Summary of SmolLM3

SmolLM3 is a new small language model designed for efficiency and performance, released on July 8, 2025. It features a 3 billion parameter architecture that excels in tasks requiring reasoning and long-context processing, supporting six languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, and Portuguese.

Key Features:

• Performance: SmolLM3 outperforms other models in its class and is competitive with larger 4B models, achieving strong results across various benchmarks in knowledge, reasoning, mathematics, and coding.
• Training Approach: The model was trained on 11 trillion tokens using a three-stage pretraining strategy that combines web, math, and code data. Each stage progressively enhances the model’s capabilities.
• Long Context and Reasoning: SmolLM3 can handle context lengths of up to 128,000 tokens, making it effective for tasks requiring extensive context. It has dual modes for instructing and reasoning, allowing users to choose between direct answers and detailed reasoning processes.
• Open Source: The model and its training methodology are fully open, including architecture details and training configurations, enabling others to replicate or build upon its design.

How to Use: Users can run SmolLM3 locally by installing the necessary libraries and loading the model. The model supports tool calling and allows for flexible interaction modes with reasoning options.

In conclusion, SmolLM3 is a powerful tool for various language processing tasks, and its open-source nature encourages community engagement and further development.

No summary available.

epanet-jsepanet-js is a new web application that uses modern maps and the EPANET hydraulic simulation algorithm. It helps people plan and update water utility systems by connecting pipes and managing pressures. The creators, Luke Butler and Sam Payá from Iterating, are experts in this field.

The author, who previously developed a mapping tool called Placemark, is excited about this new application. They open-sourced Placemark with a permissive MIT license, hoping it would inspire others to create products with it. The author believes that helping others succeed is rewarding and that software with lasting impact is rare.

While Placemark was a general tool without a clear market fit, epanet-js is targeted at a real market for hydraulic simulation, making it a promising project. The Iterating team has also contributed back to the Placemark codebase, showing their commitment to the open-source community.

epanet-js can run simulations directly in a web browser and is a more affordable alternative to expensive traditional software. Congratulations to Luke and Sam for their impressive work on epanet-js!

COBOL Calculator Collection Summary

This project features a set of calculators written in COBOL, showcasing different types and modern features, including emoji support. It includes:

1. Basic Calculator: A traditional calculator using standard infix notation.
2. RPN Calculator: A calculator that uses Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) with stack-based evaluation.
3. Emoji RPN Calculator: An RPN calculator that uses emoji for operations (➕➖✖➗).

Setup Instructions:

• For macOS, install GNU COBOL with Homebrew: brew install gnu-cobol.
• For Linux, use your package manager to install GnuCOBOL or Open-COBOL.
• For Windows, download GnuCOBOL from the official website.

How to Use:

• Compile and run each calculator with commands like cobc -x calculator.cob -o calculator followed by ./calculator.
• Examples of inputs and outputs are provided for each calculator.

Testing:

• Each calculator has a test suite that can be run directly or through provided scripts.

Features:

• The Basic Calculator supports basic operations and error handling.
• The RPN Calculator supports complex expressions and has extensive test coverage.
• The Emoji RPN Calculator features emoji operators and colorful error messages.

Error Handling: Both RPN calculators include error messages for issues like division by zero and invalid expressions.

Technical Highlights:

• Demonstrates COBOL features like data structures, string handling, and Unicode support.
• All calculators compile with GnuCOBOL version 3.2 or higher.

Contributing: You can add operations, tests, or features by following the existing structure.

Fun Fact: This project shows that COBOL, despite being an older programming language, can handle modern features like Unicode emojis!

Ceramic uses the Haxe programming language, allowing you to write your code once and convert it to different languages like C++, JavaScript, or C#. This lets you create apps that can run on various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, HTML5/WebGL, and Unity projects.

The article discusses how plants, particularly Arabidopsis roots, detect and repair their outer protective layer, called the periderm, after it gets damaged. The periderm is crucial for preventing water loss and protecting against pathogens.

Key points include:

1. Gas Sensing for Repair: Plants monitor the levels of gases, specifically ethylene and oxygen, to assess the integrity of the periderm. When the periderm is injured, ethylene escapes, and oxygen enters, which triggers a signaling process that promotes healing.

2. Regeneration Process: After injury, the regeneration of the periderm starts within a day. Specific genes are activated, and new cells that form the periderm differentiate over the next few days. By the fourth day, the barrier is largely restored.

3. Role of Ethylene: Ethylene, a plant hormone, plays a complex role. It is necessary for normal growth but can inhibit the initial response to repair the periderm after injury. When ethylene levels are high, the regeneration process is slowed down.

4. Practical Implications: Understanding how plants regenerate their protective barriers can have biological and economic benefits, especially since some plant materials, like cork, are commercially valuable.

Overall, the study highlights that gas diffusion is a key mechanism plants use to monitor and repair their protective barriers.

MIPS and Cyient Semiconductor are teaming up to create custom RISC-V-based power solutions. These solutions will be used in areas like AI power delivery, industrial robotics, and the automotive industry. The partnership was announced on June 12, 2025, in San Jose, California, and Hyderabad, India.

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Summary: Supabase MCP Security Risk

Supabase's Model Context Protocol (MCP) can expose a developer's private SQL database to attackers. This risk arises because large language models (LLMs) cannot differentiate between instructions and data. If a user submits a message that looks like an instruction, the model might process it incorrectly.

Key Points:

1. The Issue: LLMs process all text equally, which means maliciously crafted messages can be interpreted as commands. This can lead to data leaks.

2. Setup: An example setup using Supabase includes standard security measures like Row-Level Security (RLS), but the developer's tools can bypass these protections.

3. The Attack:

   • An attacker opens a support ticket and submits a message with hidden instructions for the Cursor assistant.
   • When a developer later uses the assistant to review tickets, the malicious instructions can lead to sensitive data being leaked into the support tickets.

4. Mitigations:

   • Read-Only Mode: Use a read-only flag when initializing the MCP to prevent any data modifications.
   • Prompt Injection Filter: Implement checks to identify and filter out suspicious user inputs before they reach the assistant.

These steps can help reduce the risk of data leaks when using LLMs in applications. For further assistance on securing MCP servers, reaching out to security experts is recommended.

The article by Rune Madsen discusses the impact of Figma, a popular design tool, on the design process. Madsen reflects on his early experiences with Figma and how it has become essential for remote design work. However, he expresses concern that Figma's features, like Auto Layout and Dev Mode, push designers towards an engineering mindset, limiting creativity and exploration in the design phase.

Auto Layout, for example, can restrict designers by locking layouts in place, making it harder to experiment with different designs. Similarly, Dev Mode encourages designers to finalize their ideas away from the coding stage, potentially leading to wasted effort as prototypes are often rebuilt in code later.

Madsen argues that this trend towards rigid structure in design can lead to a lack of diversity and creativity, as everything starts to look similar due to shared constraints. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between design and engineering, advocating for a process that allows for messy creativity rather than strict order. Ultimately, he warns that while Figma is a powerful tool, it can shape design practices in ways that might stifle innovation.

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The text is from Lithub Daily, dated July 10, 2025. It highlights an interview with Fanny Howe, who has passed away, by Chloe Garcia Roberts. The piece also discusses the impact of Japanese American incarceration on current anti-immigrant policies during Trump's presidency. Additionally, it mentions the trend of adapting novels into prestigious TV shows. There is also a note about Lit Hub Radio featuring podcasts and audiobooks.